The Problem With Sickled Cells

In sickle cell anemia, the hemoglobin is abnormal, causing the red blood cells to be rigid and shaped like a C or sickle, the shape from which the disease takes its name. This video shows how the shape of sickle cells causes them to get stuck in vessles and block the flow of blood, which can result in pain and infections. To learn more about this and other blood diseases, visit ASH's patient resources webpage http://hematology.org/Patients/.

This animation was featured in the documentary film "Blood Detectives." To learn more about the film, visit http://www.hematology.org/Publications/Blood-Detectives/5246.aspx

Category:

Education

Tags:

• sickle cell anemia
• Sickle cell disease
• blood disease
• genetic disorder
• red blood cells
• hematology

[isuckMJ2]

i have the trait because of my dad :(

[rila]

Brrrr....frightening.

[luvlydragon121]

*gulp*

[sweets683]

i have it :( :'(

[twannaraylive]

When I look at these video's I can't believe that's what I look like inside.

[brianli1999]

@sirajrizvi yea

[sirajrizvi]

@brianli1999 it must feel hopeless sometimes doesnt it. Like sometimes I feel like there is a loss of cognitive ability.

[partydavo]

@Tahmmo Well impaired blood flow to the brain damages the neurons and the delicate tieeues of the brain, causing parts to become inactive and unable to function properly.. Do some research on a Dr Andrew Moulden.. he is changing lives worldwide.

[Tahmmo]

The anemia is caused by the early lysis of these altered rbc, the mechanical strain kills them earlier then they would naturally causing anemia, the microinfarcts described here is because of their lack of flexibility when moving through small capillaries and the get stuck.

[Tahmmo]

@partydavo ? explain,,